CUC upgrades power equipment
The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation on Saturday routed new high voltage wires and testing equipment that better prepares the electric company for emergencies and typhoon operations.
In case of emergencies, such as high winds, traffic accidents that knock out power poles, or equipment failure, the utility company switches customers to a different grid providing constant service and reliability. The equipment that switches electric grids in Lower Base and Sadog Tasi has been installed last Saturday, along with power poles and new high voltage wires that carry more power and reduce future outages.
This is a major upgrade of electrical services that began in early April and continues through May.
The Commonwealth Utilities Corporations logs frequent complaints and outages on the old Lower Base system- one of the first systems installed on Saipan in the U.S. Navy days. Commonly called “Feeder 4”, the grid spans from Lower Base, through Saipan’s industrial center, by Saipan Ice & Water Company, and the Verizon center to customers on Capitol Hill, through Cross Island Road and down through Kagman.
To correct several outdated-designs and maintenance issues, crews worked simultaneously Saturday on a total of 15 projects. Four power poles were replaced on the road in Lower Base where Saipan Ice is located, en route to L&T Garment/Tan Holdings.
New high voltage wires were installed. New cross pole wood and pole top equipment was added to more than 15 power poles, and new streetlights or replacements were included in the work orders. The size of the high voltage wires is increased to allow for bigger current and additional customers.
